Crock pot creamy Cajun chicken pasta is a simple, hands-off way to enjoy a deliciously creamy and spicy meal. Tender chicken pieces cooked slowly with Cajun spices, creamy sauce, and pasta all come together in one pot, making it both tasty and easy to prepare. The Cajun seasoning gives it a little kick, while the creamy texture keeps everything smooth and comforting.
I love making this dish when I want something hearty without spending too much time in the kitchen. It’s great because you can just toss the ingredients into the crock pot in the morning and come back later to a warm, flavorful dinner. One tip I like to follow is adding a little extra cheese at the end to make it even creamier—always a winner in my book!
Whenever I serve this pasta, I usually pair it with a simple green salad or some steamed veggies to balance out the richness. It’s a meal that feels special, but it’s also so easy that it fits perfectly into a busy weeknight. Every time I make it, everyone asks for seconds, which says a lot about how much it’s loved around my table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Using boneless skinless chicken makes shredding easier after slow cooking. If you prefer, thighs work well too and stay juicy.
Cajun seasoning: This packs the flavor and spice. If store-bought isn’t handy, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and oregano.
Heavy cream: It’s what makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter option, half-and-half or coconut milk can work, but the sauce won’t be as thick.
Fettuccine pasta: I like fettuccine here for its wide shape that holds the sauce well. You can swap with penne or rigatoni if preferred.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a nice salty depth. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano or even a mild Asiago can be good replacements.
How Do You Prevent the Chicken from Drying Out in the Crock Pot?
Chicken can dry out if cooked too long or without moisture. Here’s how to keep it tender:
- Sear chicken first to lock in juices and add flavor — a quick 2-3 minutes per side is enough.
- Cook on low heat rather than high to gently soften the meat over time.
- Make sure there’s enough liquid in the crock pot—chicken broth and cream help keep it moist.
- Remove chicken promptly once it’s tender and shred it; then add back to the sauce to soak up flavors.
These steps make for juicy, soft chicken that blends perfectly into the creamy Cajun sauce.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crock pot – the key for slow cooking the chicken and sauce hands-free all day.
- Skillet – great for searing chicken quickly to lock in juices before adding to the crock pot.
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula – perfect for stirring pasta and sauce without scratching your crock pot.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping onion, garlic, and slicing the cooked chicken.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your spices, broth, and cream just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp or sausage for a different protein twist that cooks quickly and adds new textures.
- Add bell peppers or spinach near the end of cooking for extra color, crunch, and nutrients.
- Use smoked paprika or chipotle powder instead of Cajun seasoning for a smoky depth and milder heat.
- Stir in cream cheese or shredded mozzarella for an even creamier and cheesier sauce.
How to Make Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta and Finishing Touches:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta (uncooked)
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, plus 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high cooking time in the crock pot. Then another 20-30 minutes to cook the pasta and finish the sauce. Perfect for a relaxed day with minimal hands-on time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Sear the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with half of the Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. Don’t worry about cooking it through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
2. Combine Sauce Ingredients in Crock Pot:
In your crock pot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, drained diced tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, and the remaining Cajun seasoning. Stir everything together until well mixed.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the sauce mixture in the crock pot. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
4. Shred Chicken and Add Pasta:
Remove the chicken from the crock pot and shred or slice into bite-sized pieces. Break the uncooked fettuccine pasta in half and stir it into the crock pot, submerging it in the sauce.
5. Finish Cooking Pasta and Sauce:
Cook on high heat for an additional 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender (al dente) and the sauce has thickened nicely.
6. Add Cheese and Combine:
Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and mix everything together. Taste and add salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Spoon the creamy Cajun chicken pasta into bowls and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Enjoy warm!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. This ensures even cooking in the crock pot.
Can I Substitute a Different Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine works great, you can use penne, rigatoni, or even rotini. Just make sure to break longer pasta in half so it fits and cooks evenly in the crock pot.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce creamy.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken a day ahead. Store them separately from pasta, then combine and heat together when you’re ready to serve for fresher texture.
